January 21, 1937 – January 22, 2025

On January 22, 2025, William H. (Bill) Ellis, died peacefully at his Mercer Island, WA home. Born January 21, 1937 in Evansville, IN to William & Eula Burke Ellis, he will be remembered for his kind heart, quiet humor, and endlessly learning new skills.

Bill earned his EE Degree at Purdue, his MSEE from George Washington University (1967) and served in the Air Force, leaving as 1st Lieutenant. The fledgling Cable TV industry involved him in system building, manufacturing, and in Kent, Washington, R&D at Augat Communications Products. He held four U.S. patents. Married to Shirley Brockmann in 1971, they traveled extensively across five continents. Bill’s daughters Andi and Chris joined in trips abroad, as well as U.S.A. family vacations with the four grandchildren.

Licensed for amateur ham radio at age 15, he participated with Mercer Island Radio Operators for two decades (President 3 years); and volunteered with Mercer Island Emergency Management, helping to install preparedness equipment, build cabinets, and mentor hams.

An avid reader, hiker, and fly-fisherman, Bill relished the camaraderie while golfing. His do-it-yourself interests were as varied as building a sailboat, home design/construction, and overhauling his pickup truck engine. Together with Shirley, he designed/built numerous wood projects and family gifts including Native American flutes, dulcimer, jewelry box, clocks, Little Free Library. Inspiring those around him, he enjoyed carving, painting, piano, banjo, Qigong, learning German and simple computer programming.

Greatly loved and missed by his family, he is survived by his wife of 53 years, two daughters, four grandchildren, nieces/ nephews; and preceded in death by parents, two sisters, and one niece. A Celebration of Life will be held March 28. Donations in Bill’s memory are suggested for these compassionate non-profits: ELDERWISE, Seattle; OLD FRIENDS CLUB, Mercer Island.